Parts for your 2017 Ford Escape-Centre bearing

Centre Bearing on the 2017 Ford Escape - What You Need to Know

The 2017 Ford Escape is a popular compact SUV that balances performance and practicality, making it a favourite among many drivers in Australia and beyond. When it comes to its drivetrain setup, some enthusiasts and DIY mechanics often wonder if it uses a centre bearing, also known as a carrier bearing, as part of its drive shaft assembly. This part is commonly found in vehicles with a two-piece drive shaft, helping to support and stabilise the shaft as it spins. But does the 2017 Ford Escape actually use one? The short answer is no, and here's why.

The 2017 Ford Escape mainly comes with either front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations, which significantly influence its drivetrain layout. The front-wheel-drive models typically have a transaxle that combines the transmission and differential into one compact unit, directly sending power to the front wheels through constant velocity (CV) joints. This design eliminates the need for a long driveshaft running to the rear wheels, meaning no centre-bearing is necessary.

As for the AWD versions, the setup uses an electronically controlled coupling and a relatively short prop shaft to deliver power to the rear wheels. The rear drive shaft in this case is a single-piece design or very short, so it doesn't require a centre bearing for extra support. The centre bearing is usually installed in vehicles where the drive shaft is split into two sections, often seen in rear-wheel drive (RWD) or some four-wheel drive (4WD) trucks and larger SUVs, to manage shaft length and reduce vibrations.

In the case of the 2017 Ford Escape, the drivetrain layout and engineering choices avoid the need for a centre bearing. This not only simplifies the design but also reduces the number of components that could wear out or need maintenance. By using shorter, simpler shafts without joints requiring a bearing in the middle, Ford is able to keep the drivetrain compact and reliable.

So, for people who own or work on a 2017 Ford Escape, it's important to know that there is no centre bearing fitted in this vehicle. Instead, maintenance and servicing tend to focus more on other components like the CV joints, the transmission fluid, and the driveshaft universal joints (where applicable). These parts are typically where you want to be looking if you hear any unusual vibrations or noises coming from the drivetrain.

That said, understanding what a centre bearing does is still useful for anyone who is into cars or DIY repairs, especially if you ever work on vehicles equipped with one. A centre bearing supports a split driveshaft, acting as a stabiliser that prevents excessive movement and vibration. It wraps around the shaft and is mounted to the vehicle's chassis or crossmember, keeping the shaft properly aligned and balanced as it spins at high speeds. Without a properly functioning centre bearing, driveline vibrations, noises, and premature wear can become serious issues.

For vehicles that do use centre bearings, regular inspection and maintenance can extend the part's life and ensure smooth operation. Over time, the rubber or polyurethane cushion around the bearing can deteriorate, and the bearing itself can wear out, leading to excessive shaft play or knocking noises. If left unserviced, this can cause damage to other drivetrain components and even lead to drive shaft failure. It's generally recommended to have the centre bearing checked during routine servicing, especially if the vehicle has high mileage or if any vibrations are noticed coming from under the car.

If a centre bearing replacement is necessary, it usually involves removing the drive shaft assembly, pulling out the old bearing, and installing the new one. It's also a good idea to check the condition of the companion components such as the driveshaft U-joints or CV joints at the same time. Using the correct tools and following the manufacturer's torque specifications helps avoid damage and keeps everything balanced.

In short, while the 2017 Ford Escape skips out on the centre bearing entirely due to its drivetrain design, understanding the role of this part is still handy for anyone diving into vehicle mechanics. For Escape owners, focusing on the health of CV joints, universal joints, and fluid services will keep the drivetrain running smooth without the worry of a centre bearing wearing out. No centre bearing means a bit less to worry about under the vehicle, which is always a nice bonus for everyday drivers.